Australia is set to update its
child car seat rules in 2025 to improve young passenger safety and strengthen driver compliance. These national changes aim to reflect advances in safety research and further reduce child injury in vehicle accidents.
Most Important Changes
The 2025 updates will establish a unified nationwide standard requiring all drivers to use
certified child restraint systems. Key requirements by age include:
- Infants (0–6 months): Must use a properly fitted rear-facing car seat that provides full head and neck support.
- 6 months–4 years: Children must remain in a rear-facing seat for as long as possible but may transition to a forward-facing harnessed seat depending on size and manufacturer guidelines.
- 4–7 years: Must use a booster seat with a lap-sash seatbelt to ensure correct fit and protection.
- 7+ years: Should use an adult seatbelt, but booster seats remain recommended until the seatbelt fits properly across the shoulder and hips.
Installation and Usage Requirements
- All car seats must be approved for use in Australia and carry the proper certification label.
- Use ISOFIX anchor points or seatbelt installation according to manufacturer instructions for improved safety.
- Inspect seats for wear or damage and replace after a crash or when more than 7–10 years old (expiry varies by model).
Compliance and Enforcement
- Transport authorities and police will continue routine safety checks and issue fines exceeding $300 for non-compliance.
- National educational campaigns will emphasize correct usage, size selection, and secure installation.
- Parents and guardians should retain proof of compliance, such as purchase receipts and certification documents.
What Parents Should Do
- Ensure the restraint matches the child’s age, weight, and height.
- Install seats securely using ISOFIX or seatbelts as directed in the manufacturer’s manual.
- Check for seat damage, expiry, or recalls regularly.
- Attend free community installation inspection events where available for expert guidance.
Summary Table: Child Car Seat Requirements 2025 – Australia
| Age Range |
Required Seat Type |
Important Notes |
| 0–6 months |
Rear-facing infant seat |
Mandatory for head and neck safety |
| 6 months–4 years |
Rear or forward-facing seat |
Use harnessed seat per child’s size |
| 4–7 years |
Booster seat with lap-sash seatbelt |
Ensures proper adult belt fit |
| 7+ years |
Adult seatbelt |
Booster recommended until correct fit |
From 2025, Australia will require children aged
5–6 years to travel in a
forward-facing harnessed seat. These new
Child Car Seat Regulations emphasize correct restraint choice, proper fitting, and strict legal compliance. Parents and guardians remain the
primary safety protectors of their children in vehicles. Failure to comply can result not only in fines but also in severe safety risks — reinforcing the importance of proper restraint use.
